NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has expressed confidence in the league’s ongoing collective bargaining agreement negotiations with the NHL Players’ Association, describing the tone of current talks as “constructive, professional, [and] cordial.” Speaking ahead of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers, Bettman noted that although discussions began later than expected, both parties are in a strong position with over a year left before the current agreement expires on September 15, 2026.
NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh echoed Bettman’s optimism, calling negotiations “good” and “ongoing,” and contrasting them with the more contentious bargaining rounds of the past that led to major labor disruptions—including the lost 2004-05 season and shortened campaigns in 1994-95 and 2012-13.
While Walsh acknowledged the complexities involved in the process, he emphasized that the current labor climate is far from adversarial, and both sides are working through their respective interests in good faith.
On international competition, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly confirmed that Russian players will remain banned from participating in the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics due to ongoing geopolitical issues. This will mark the first time NHL players participate in the Olympics since 2014.
Meanwhile, league expansion remains on the radar, with significant interest from potential markets like Atlanta and Houston. However, Daly clarified that no formal expansion process is underway. Proposals with complete expansion criteria may still be reviewed by the NHL Board of Governors if presented.
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